We’re in the middle of a COVID-19, a global pandemic virus unlike any other we’ve seen in modern times. Cities and States are going into lock down, grocery store shelves are empty, and social distancing has become the norm. Doomsday preppers are safe in their bunkers smirking at the rest of us saying “I told you so”, but I’ve got news. It’s not the End of the World!
As a young country we’ve been through a lot over the past 200+ years. Even the recent history of difficult times like September 11, the financial crisis of 2008, and the natural disasters of hurricanes and floods have impacted many of our lives and those of our families and friends. Much like our founding fathers endured the challenges of religious and economic persecution to fight disease and famine crossing the seas in search of a better way of life, we too must come together as Americans and families to preserve our way of life.
Here are a few simple strategies you can use to help guide you and your family through these tough times.
Ø TALK — Talking about your concerns and listening to each other’s feelings is one of the most important things you can do for your family to help get through any difficult times. The hectic pace of our normal lives often makes it difficult to have family dinner. STOP, and take advantage of this time together by sitting down at the dinner table, talking, and listening. You might just be surprised at how refreshing it is and what you’ve missed!
Ø PLAN — Make a plan for what you want to do when this is all over! It does not have to be big or extravagant — it could be as simple as walking the dog in the park, or maybe taking a trip to see family out of town whom was also isolated during this situation. It’s important for people to see and understand that these events will pass, and things will be back to normal. One of the best ways to do that is by focusing on the finish line and set a goal.
Ø ORGANIZE — Make a list of the things you have been meaning to do but just haven’t gotten around to. What better time than now to make it happen? Clean the attic or the garage, organize the photos from the last family trip, and review your plans for your family regarding how you handled this situation. Were you prepared? Could you have done a better job and how?
Ø RECONNECT — Now more than ever is the time to reach out to family and friends, let them know you care, and make sure they are getting through these difficult times. Too many of us became comfortable with social media as a form of managing our relationships with family and friends. PICK UP THE PHONE and call people important to you. If you can, video chat! I called my Aunt Lisa in Maine this past weekend, and didn’t notice until we hung up the phone that we had talked for over 2 hours!
Ø HAVE FUN — It’s not every month, or even year, that we are given the chance to take some time off work, reconnect with family and friends, and focus on the things that really matter in our lives. Just because we are limited in our movements does not mean we can’t have fun! Family meals — get everyone involved in planning and making dinner! Movie night — all the on-demand channels we have access to mean there’s something for everyone. Read a book, listen to music, play games, exercise…the list goes on and on!
Your ability to help lead your family through these tough times is important for everyone’s well-being. If you find yourself having trouble reach out to a friend or family matter and talk about with them. You are not alone, and if you don’t have anyone to speak with, feel free to contact us! I am happy to help and I want you to be the best you can be! www.danlounsbury.com